Stephenville ISD recognized for its outstanding music program.

Special to Beneath the Surface News

Stephenville ISD has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.

Now in its 24th year, the Best Communities for Music Education designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

“Stephenville ISD offers fine art classes across all grade levels,” said Kathy Hampton, SISD’s executive director of human resources. “Learning to love art and music begins at our earliest campus.

“These students not only develop fine art skills, they also receive benefits that extend and empower academic areas. We are very fortunate to have talented educators who challenge our students to be amazingly successful in both academic and fine arts areas. We are very proud of this award and excited to highlight our fine art students.”

Members of SISD’s award-winning music faculty include elementary teachers Stephanie Childs, Ashley Westbrook, Jamie Taylor and Destin Chapman; choir teachers Heather Smith and Arielle Sword; and band directors Michael Childs, Chris Conway, Scott Copeland, Audrey Lowe and Kurt Swisher.

“Nothing connects people together more than music. Consequently, music education is one of the most important forms of education there is,” said SISD band student Benjamin Wood. “It fosters personal relationships, enables the creative use of the mind, and rewards students like no other subject can.

“Had I not been taught what it means to love music, I would not be where I am today, both academically and mentally… (music education) is a force for good that can be acquired by anybody who wishes to fulfill their lives and strengthen their mind.”